Quique Bassat, New Board Member of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control

Quique Bassat, an epidemiologist and Director General of the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), has been appointed to the Management Board of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) as a representative of the European Parliament. This appointment underlines his track record in infectious disease epidemiology and public health and strengthens the representation of Spanish experts in high-level European bodies. 

Coordinating the response to health threats

The ECDC, based in Stockholm, Sweden, is a European Union agency coordinating and strengthening the EU’s public health response to communicable disease threats. Its tasks include collecting and analysing public health data, supporting surveillance systems and issuing recommendations for preparedness and response to health emergencies. It works closely with other EU bodies and international agencies to ensure a coherent and effective health response. Its work has been particularly prominent during recent health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and other infectious disease outbreaks, including Mpox.

Scientific leadership to strengthen the European response

Quique Bassat, a paediatrician and ICREA Research Professor, has combined clinical work with biomedical research on infectious diseases affecting the poorest and most vulnerable populations, with his two main areas of interest being childhood malaria and respiratory infections (bacterial or viral). With his appointment, ISGlobal's Director General will join a select group of experts charged with advising on the agency's strategies and policies, ensuring that its activities are relevant and aligned with the needs of member states. 

“It is a privilege to be part of such an important institution for the health of European citizens. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to respond to health threats in a coordinated and effective way is vital. I look forward to contributing my expertise in infectious diseases to the ECDC's mission of strengthening prevention and control capacities across Europe,” he said after his appointment was confirmed.